Product Details
Color Details
Size DetailsFrequently Asked Questions
Are the Smith Lowdown 2 Core sunglasses prescription ready?
Are the Smith Lowdown 2 Core sunglasses prescription-ready?
What lens options are available for the Smith Lowdown 2 Core?
What's the difference between Lowdown 2 Core and regular Lowdown 2?
Are Smith Lowdown 2 Core sunglasses suitable for both men and women?
Do these sunglasses have polarized lenses?
What frame colors are available for the Smith Lowdown 2 Core?
What is the frame size and fit of the Lowdown 2 Core?
Will these sunglasses stay on during active sports and workouts?
What is the difference between Smith Lowdown 2 and Lowdown 2 Core?
Are these sunglasses made from sustainable materials?
Do Smith Lowdown 2 Core sunglasses provide UV protection?
Compare With Similar Frames
How the Smith Optics Lifestyle 203563 Lowdown 2 Core Sunglasses stacks up against the closest alternatives we carry.
- Wider variety of lens options including ChromaPop Glass
- More frame color choices available
- Lower starting price point at $66
- Larger lens coverage (60mm vs 55mm lens width)
- Better for larger faces and heads
- Longer temple arms for improved comfort on bigger heads
- Better fit for small faces and low nose bridges
- More flattering proportions for petite features
- Same performance features in a scaled-down design
Read the full comparison
Smith Lowdown 2 Core vs. Other Lowdown Models: Finding Your Perfect Fit
The Smith Lowdown family offers multiple variations of the same iconic square frame design, each tailored to different needs. Here's how the Lowdown 2 Core compares to other popular models in our collection.
Lowdown 2 Core vs. Standard Lowdown 2
The primary difference is sustainability. The Lowdown 2 Core is crafted from recycled post-consumer water bottles with an embossed logo (no adhesives), recycled microfiber bag, and 100% recycled packaging. The standard Lowdown 2 uses traditional bio-based Evolve frame material and offers a wider variety of lens options including ChromaPop Glass. Both share identical frame dimensions (55mm lens width, 16mm bridge, 145mm temples) and the same medium fit with 4-base lens curvature. Choose the Core if environmental impact matters to you, or the standard Lowdown 2 if you want more lens customization options or prefer the lower starting price of $66.
Lowdown 2 Core vs. Lowdown XL 2
Size is the deciding factor here. The Lowdown XL 2 features larger 60mm lenses (vs. 55mm on the Core) and longer temple arms, making it ideal for larger faces or those who prefer maximum coverage. Reviews from taller users note the XL relieves pressure on ears and provides superior comfort for bigger heads. However, the XL 2 isn't available in the sustainable Core construction. If you have an average to large face and want eco-friendly materials, the Lowdown 2 Core is your best bet. If you have a genuinely large head or face, the extra coverage of the XL 2 may be worth choosing the standard frame material.
Lowdown 2 Core vs. Lowdown Slim 2
The Lowdown Slim 2 is specifically designed for smaller faces, particularly those with low nose bridges. It scales down the classic Lowdown proportions while maintaining the same performance features including Megol nose pads and ChromaPop lens options. Reviewers with petite features praise the Slim 2 for actually staying in place and flattering smaller faces rather than overwhelming them. The Lowdown 2 Core's medium fit works well for most average-sized faces, but if you've struggled with sunglasses sliding down or looking too large, the Slim 2 is the better choice—even though it's not available in the recycled Core version.
Our Recommendation
The Smith Lowdown 2 Core hits the sweet spot for most customers: classic styling, proven medium fit, excellent polarized lenses, and sustainable construction at a competitive $147 price point. It's the ideal choice if you have an average-sized face, value environmental responsibility, and want reliable all-day performance. The polarized lenses, prescription-ready frame, and no-slip Megol nose pads make it equally capable for active pursuits and everyday wear. Plus, knowing your sunglasses are made from recycled water bottles adds feel-good value that the standard models can't match.
At a Glance
Smith Optics Lifestyle 200941 Lowdown 2 Sunglasses
Pros:
- Wider variety of lens options including ChromaPop Glass
- More frame color choices available
- Lower starting price point at $66
Cons:
- Not made from recycled materials
- Standard packaging not eco-focused
- May not appeal to environmentally-conscious buyers
Smith Optics Lifestyle 201514 Lowdown XL 2 Sunglasses
Pros:
- Larger lens coverage (60mm vs 55mm lens width)
- Better for larger faces and heads
- Longer temple arms for improved comfort on bigger heads
Cons:
- May be too large for average or smaller faces
- Slightly higher price range
- Not available in sustainable Core version
Smith Optics Lifestyle 201044 Lowdown Slim 2 Sunglasses
Pros:
- Better fit for small faces and low nose bridges
- More flattering proportions for petite features
- Same performance features in a scaled-down design
Cons:
- Less coverage than standard Lowdown 2 Core
- Not ideal for larger faces
- Smaller lenses may not suit everyone's style preference